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Albert Folch
Professor of Bioengineering at University of Washington
Professional Background
Albert Folch is an esteemed figure in the fields of microfluidics and bioengineering, with an illustrious career dedicated to the advancement of cancer diagnostics and drug affordability. At the helm of the Folch lab, he and his team are revolutionizing how cancer drugs are tested, focusing on an innovative approach that uses microfluidic devices to carry out drug multiplexing directly in intact human biopsies. This pioneering methodology is designed not only to enhance the precision of drug testing but also to make cancer therapies more accessible to those in need.
Under Folch's leadership, the lab has developed cutting-edge microfluidic assays and designs, pushing the envelope of microfluidic automation and gradient generation. The lab’s efforts include important contributions to Organ-on-a-Chip technologies, involving tumor cells, muscle cells, and stem cells, as well as innovative techniques in stereolithography. Albert's passion for merging technology with biology highlights the potential of microfabrication in enhancing medical applications, particularly in cancer research.
Education and Achievements
Albert Folch's extensive academic journey is marked by prestigious institutions and transformative research experiences. He earned his Ph.D. in Nanotechnology at the Universitat de Barcelona, studying under Professor Tejada in the Physics Department, where he laid the foundation for his future work in microfluidics. Folch further expanded his expertise through postdoctoral work in BioMEMS and Tissue Engineering at Harvard Medical School with Professor Mehmet Toner, and at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) under renowned faculty members, Professors Martin Schmidt and Mark Wrighton, specializing in MEMS technologies.
His diverse educational experiences also include a stint as a Visiting Scientist at the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, where he worked with Dr. Miquel Salmeron on Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), further enriching his understanding of the micro-scale world.
Albert's scholarly contributions are substantial, as he has authored five books that collectively illuminate the complexities of microfluidic technology and its applications. Among these, “Hidden in Plain Sight - The History, Science, and Engineering of Microfluidic Technology,” published by MIT Press in 2022, serves as a significant resource for researchers and practitioners in the field. Additionally, his textbook “Introduction to BioMEMS” has gained international recognition and is currently adopted by approximately 103 departments across 18 countries, evidencing the global impact of his work. Folch's literary contributions extend beyond the scientific realm; he has also written two books related to soccer, reflecting his personal passion for the sport.
Achievements
Throughout his career, Albert Folch has received multiple accolades acknowledging his exemplary work. Notably, he was awarded the National Science Foundation (NSF) CAREER Award in 2000, a prestigious honor that recognizes early career faculty who demonstrate commitment to integrating education and research. His induction as a Fellow of the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE) in 2014 further solidifies his reputation as a leader in bioengineering.
In 2022, he was honored with election to the Institute of Catalan Studies, showcasing his commitment to the advancement of science and culture.
Beyond his research achievements, Folch is also known for his engagement in the arts through the BAIT (Bringing Art Into Technology) program, which he started in 2007. The program has produced seven notable exhibits and maintains a gallery of over 2,000 free images tied to microfluidics and microfabrication. This initiative not only bridges the gap between science and art but also serves as a pivotal platform for communicating scientific knowledge to a broader audience. The lab's YouTube channel, featuring captivating microfluidic videos that incorporate music, has garnered over 165,000 visits since its inception, demonstrating the widespread appeal and impact of his work.
In Summary
Albert Folch is a dedicated scientist and educator whose work continues to inspire innovation in the fields of microfluidics and bioengineering. His passion for research, combined with a commitment to art and effective communication, makes him a well-rounded leader in his field. Through his research, he is contributing significantly to the future of personalized medicine, improving outcomes for cancer patients globally.
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